As climate change, social justice and other environmental, social or governance-related (ESG) issues come to the fore worldwide, customers are increasingly looking for financial institutions with service offerings that generate more than just a financial impact. Sustainable banking is a strategy that responds to this demand and refers to banking practices that pursue profit that is not at the expense of environmental sustainability, social responsibility, or trustworthy corporate governance.  

This report explores the state of sustainable banking in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). By analysing existing business models and banking trends, the report aims to provide insights into the challenges and opportunities for sustainable banking in the CEE region. The report assesses both the region’s existing sustainable banks and the efforts of incumbent banks or lending entities to implement sustainability aspects into their traditional business models